Iron City Festival will honor town's roots

From its infancy, the town of Blacksburg has been a place of opportunity as settlers hoped to capitalize by working on the territory's railroad system or mining its rich soil for the precious mineral iron ore.

Though the days of the railroad and the miner are gone, residents of the town still find themselves with an array of choices - and a way to pay homage to its roots.

During its annual Iron City Festival, Blacksburg will honor those who laid the groundwork for the town's success. The event, which is being hosted by the Blacksburg Business Association (BBA), will take place April 19.

This is the third year the event has been held. Festival organizers estimate close to 4,000 people attended last year.

"The event was a success from everything that we saw and were told, " Linda Falls of the Blacksburg Business Association said. "We had several thousand people come out. After all, this is a community event focused on providing families a good time and bringing people to Blacksburg."

A wide array of events is scheduled that will appeal to every member of the family.

A Celebrate America kid's parade kicks off the festivities as children of all ages show pride in the country by wearing red, white and blue. Those participating in the parade will be allowed to ride skateboards, bicycles, wagons and other items not powered by engines.

Miniature train rides, WSPA-Channel 7's Jack Roper's magic show and a model railroad display provided by the Atlantic Coast S Gaugers will also be available to occupy the interest of children.

Falls hopes to add mascots from local schools and businesses to the list.

"We would like for mascots from area teams and businesses to participate in the parade," Falls said. "It helps keep children interested and included."

Roper and the Weatherman Band will return to entertain adults along with other musical artists including Paul Black, the Possum Trotters, Carolina Thunder and the WhoDoo.

In addition, a poster will be on display for attendees to sign in order to pay honor to the members of the local National Guard.

The night prior to the festival, a street dance featuring the Iron City Band will be held from 6-8 p.m.

For more information, contact the BBA at 839-4260 or blacksburgbba@yahoo.com.